Maitland tipped but Souths given 'chance' in Newcastle RL decider

Mentors from across the competition provided the Newcastle Herald with insights.

Central's Phil Williams reckons "Maitland have been the yardstick all year, everything's got to go right for Souths".

Jamy Forbes from The Entrance feels "hard to go past Maitland. They just roll so well up the middle with minimal mistakes, their spine takes over and there's threats everywhere. In saying that, if the Souths pack can nullify their go forward, the likes of [Brock] Lamb, [Chad] O'Donnell and [Alex] Langbridge don't get the field position they want and frustration can creep in".

Cessnock's Harry Siejka says "I think Souths are definitely a chance if they play physical, however, Maitland might have an edge with being there last year. Hopefully a tight game".

Kurri's Danny Linnane leaned towards the Lions revealing "if they can limit their mistakes this will go a long way towards getting them a win. I think they are ready to put a full 80 minutes together, they are yet to do that in finals".

Roos leader Mitch Williams added, "couple of old Wyong boys at Maitland so they get my tip".

Brad Tighe from Northern Hawks predicted "Maitland in a tight one. I know Maitland haven't played much footy within the last month but they have done it all before. Matty [Lantry] will have the boys prepared and ready to go. Souths will definitely be up for it, but I feel they will run out of gas with the amount of tough games they have played over the last month".

Lakes' coach Ian Bourke kept his cards close to his chest: "I don't want to disrespect any of the teams by choosing. They have both earned the right to contest the grand final and both have had different paths and journeys. Have a good relationship with both coaches, so just wish them all the best and may the best team win".

Wests mentor Rick Stone outlined "Maitland have the class and strike. Souths have been very consistent and are getting closer. Maitland for me if they play their best".

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